Welcome to the ultimate guide to creating the most incredible, easy, and undeniably creamy Cornbread Casserole! This beloved dish, often affectionately known as corn pudding, is a true celebration of comfort food. It effortlessly combines the rich flavors of butter and sour cream with the sweet, satisfying crunch of two distinct types of corn – whole kernels and luscious creamed corn – all brought together with a convenient cornbread mix. Requiring just 5 minutes of active preparation time, this casserole is a dream for busy cooks and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, whether you’re serving it as a stellar side dish for festive holiday gatherings or enjoying it as a comforting accompaniment any time of year.
RAVE REVIEWS FOR THIS CORNBREAD CASSEROLE
Our Easy Creamy Cornbread Casserole has consistently earned top ratings and glowing testimonials from home cooks across the country. It’s not just a recipe; it’s a culinary experience that leaves a lasting impression!
Kelso says, “5 stars doesn’t do this recipe justice y’all, I’m serious. Easy recipe to make and best damn cornbread I ever had. This is going in my recipe book! Will make again.”
Lindsey says, “I always get compliments on this recipe!”
Ken says, “I make this every Thanksgiving now! It is a demanded item.”
Cornbread is a culinary cornerstone, particularly in Southern American cuisine, boasting a myriad of preparations. From robust, savory versions baked in a cast iron skillet to sweeter, cake-like variations, and those enriched with buttermilk or honey, the spectrum is vast. Each method offers a unique texture and flavor profile. While I cherish my traditional, from-scratch skillet cornbread recipe, there’s something uniquely irresistible about this creamy cornbread casserole. It’s a departure from the drier, crumbly texture often associated with classic cornbread, offering instead a moist, tender, and incredibly flavorful experience that bridges the gap between a side dish and a comforting dessert.
What sets this particular cornbread casserole recipe apart is its luscious creaminess, achieved through the generous addition of sour cream, alongside both whole kernel corn and rich creamed corn. This recipe, a treasured hand-me-down from a dear friend in Minnesota from years ago, has since become a staple in my own kitchen. It’s celebrated for its unparalleled ease and deliciousness, making it an ideal choice for grand holiday dinners like Thanksgiving or Christmas. However, its simple preparation and comforting appeal mean it’s equally perfect for any weeknight meal, bringing a touch of homestyle warmth to your table year-round. Its versatility and widespread appeal make it a dish you’ll find yourself returning to again and again.
Why This Creamy Cornbread Casserole is a Must-Try
If you’re looking for a side dish that consistently impresses without demanding hours of your time, this Easy Creamy Cornbread Casserole is your answer. Here’s why it deserves a permanent spot in your recipe collection:
- Effortless Preparation: With just 5 minutes of prep, you can whip up the batter in no time. It’s the perfect solution when you need a fantastic dish but are short on time.
- Unrivaled Creaminess: The combination of sour cream, whole corn kernels, and creamed corn creates a texture that is wonderfully moist, tender, and incredibly creamy – far from dry or crumbly.
- Versatile Pairing: This casserole complements almost any main course, from holiday roasts to everyday grilled meats. It’s a harmonious balance of sweet and savory that enhances a wide range of meals.
- Kid-Friendly & Crowd-Pleasing: Its mild, sweet corn flavor and comforting texture appeal to all ages, making it a guaranteed hit at family dinners, potlucks, and special occasions.
- Simple Ingredients: You won’t need any exotic items. This recipe relies on readily available pantry staples, making it accessible and convenient.
- Make-Ahead Potential: While best fresh, components can be prepped in advance, or the baked casserole can be reheated, saving you time on busy days.
Easy Creamy Cornbread Casserole
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Step-by-step photos can be seen below the recipe card.
Ingredients
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- 8.5 ounce package cornbread mix, (such as Jiffy)
- 15 ounce can whole corn kernels, drained
- 15 ounce can creamed corn, orhomemade
Instructions
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Preheat oven and prepare baking dish: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating, generously coat a 9×9-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. This step is crucial to prevent the casserole from sticking and ensures easy serving.
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Combine wet and dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the two large eggs, 1 cup of sour cream, ½ cup of melted unsalted butter, and 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar. Continue whisking until the mixture is completely combined and smooth. Next, add in the 8.5-ounce package of cornbread mix (such as Jiffy, a popular choice for its convenience and consistent results), the drained 15-ounce can of whole corn kernels, and the 15-ounce can of creamed corn. Stir gently with a spoon or spatula until all ingredients are just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a tougher casserole. A few lumps are perfectly fine!
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Pour into dish and prepare for baking: Carefully pour the entire cornbread mixture into your prepared 9×9-inch baking dish. Use the back of your spoon or spatula to gently smooth out the top, ensuring an even layer for consistent baking.
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Bake until golden and set: Place the baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for approximately 55-60 minutes. The casserole is ready when the top is beautifully golden brown, and a wooden skewer or toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top starts to brown too quickly, you can loosely tent it with aluminum foil during the last 15-20 minutes of baking.
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Cool and serve: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This brief cooling period helps the casserole set, making it easier to cut into neat portions. Serve warm and savor every delicious, creamy bite!
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Notes & Variations
- Add in some sausage: For a heartier, savory twist, consider adding ½ lb. of cooked and crumbled Italian sausage to the batter before baking. This adds a wonderful depth of flavor and makes the casserole even more substantial. You can also experiment with other cooked ground meats like chorizo or spicy pork sausage.
- Double the recipe: Hosting a larger crowd? This recipe can easily be doubled! Simply use a 9×13-inch baking dish and increase the baking time slightly, keeping an eye on it until a tester comes out clean.
- Cheesy Delight: For an extra layer of richness, fold in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese or a Mexican blend into the batter. This creates an even more decadent and savory casserole that cheese lovers will adore.
- A Touch of Heat: If you enjoy a bit of a kick, stir in 1-2 tablespoons of finely diced jalapeños (seeds removed for less heat) or a pinch of cayenne pepper with the wet ingredients.
- Fresh Corn Option: While canned corn is convenient, you can certainly use fresh corn kernels (about 2 cups total for both whole and creamed corn equivalent) if they are in season. For creamed corn, you’d need to blend some of the fresh kernels with a little milk or cream.
- Sweetness Adjustment: The recipe includes a tablespoon of sugar for a touch of sweetness that balances the savory elements. If you prefer a less sweet profile, you can reduce or omit the sugar. For a sweeter, more dessert-like cornbread pudding, increase the sugar to 2-3 tablespoons.
Nutrition
Nutritional information given is an automatic calculation and can vary based on the exact products you use and any changes you make to the recipe. If these numbers are very important to you, I would recommend calculating them yourself.
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How to Make Cornbread Casserole Step by Step with Photos
Making this creamy cornbread casserole is incredibly straightforward, even for novice cooks. Follow these simple steps, complete with visual guidance, to achieve perfect results every time.
- Get the oven going and prepare a baking dish: Preheat your oven to a steady 350°F (175°C). This ensures even baking. Next, take a 9×9-inch baking dish and generously coat its interior with nonstick cooking spray. This crucial step guarantees that your delicious casserole will slide out easily when it’s time to serve.
- Combine the ingredients: In a spacious mixing bowl, begin by whisking together the wet ingredients until they are beautifully smooth. This includes 2 large eggs, 1 cup of creamy sour cream, ½ cup of melted unsalted butter, and 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar. Once that’s well combined, it’s time to introduce the stars of the show: an 8.5-ounce package of classic Jiffy cornbread mix, a 15-ounce can of whole corn kernels (ensure they are thoroughly drained to avoid a watery casserole), and a 15-ounce can of rich, velvety creamed corn. Stir everything together gently with a sturdy spoon or spatula until all the ingredients are just incorporated. Be careful not to overmix the batter; a few small lumps are perfectly acceptable and won’t affect the final texture.
- Pour into baking dish and bake: Now, carefully transfer the entire cornbread mixture into your previously prepared 9×9-inch baking dish. Use the back of your spoon or a spatula to gently spread the batter evenly across the dish, creating a smooth top surface. Place the dish into your preheated oven and let it bake for approximately 55-60 minutes. You’ll know it’s perfectly done when the top has developed a beautiful golden-brown hue, and a clean wooden skewer or toothpick inserted into the very center comes out completely clean.
- Cool and serve: Once baked to perfection, remove the creamy cornbread casserole from the oven. Resist the urge to dive in immediately! Allow it to cool for a crucial 5 to 10 minutes. This resting period helps the casserole set properly, making it much easier to slice into neat, individual portions. After cooling, serve it warm and prepare to enjoy the comforting flavors of this incredible dish!
What to Serve With Easy Creamy Cornbread Casserole
This versatile creamy cornbread casserole is truly a star side dish, capable of complementing an impressive array of main courses. Its comforting, slightly sweet profile makes it a perfect partner for savory proteins and other hearty dishes. Here are some of my top recommendations for what to serve alongside this delightful corn pudding:
- Holiday Roasts: It’s an absolute essential for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter. Pair it with a succulent crockpot ham, a perfectly roasted turkey, or a tender beef roast for a complete holiday feast.
- Hearty Mains: For an everyday family dinner, serve it with this comforting and flavorful family favorite classic meatloaf, or a slow-cooked favorite like this tender slow cooker barbecue beef brisket.
- Southern Comfort: Elevate your Southern-inspired meals by pairing it with fried chicken, pulled pork, or even a classic chili. The creaminess of the casserole provides a wonderful contrast to spicier or richer main dishes.
- Grilled Favorites: During warmer months, it makes an excellent accompaniment to grilled chicken, pork chops, or even juicy steaks.
- Breakfast & Brunch: Don’t limit it to dinner! This casserole can also be a unique and delightful addition to a brunch spread, especially alongside scrambled eggs, bacon, or sausage.
Proper Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
Properly storing your creamy cornbread casserole ensures that you can enjoy its deliciousness for days to come, and knowing how to prepare it in advance can be a lifesaver for busy schedules.
- Fridge Storage. Allow any leftover corn casserole to cool completely to room temperature. Once cooled, transfer it to an airtight container. This will keep it fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat individual portions in the microwave until warmed through, or place the entire dish (covered with foil) in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 20-30 minutes, or until hot.
- Freezer Storage. While this casserole can be frozen, be aware that the high dairy content (sour cream, creamed corn) can cause a slight change in texture upon thawing, making it a bit softer or more crumbly. However, it’s still a viable option if needed. To freeze, allow the baked casserole to cool completely. If it wasn’t baked in a freezer-safe dish, transfer it to one. Wrap the entire pan tightly with two layers of aluminum foil and then an additional layer of plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. To thaw, transfer the frozen casserole to the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, you can reheat it in the oven as described above, increasing the baking time as necessary until it’s heated through.
- Make-Ahead Tips: You can prepare the casserole batter up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix all the ingredients, pour them into your prepared baking dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes while your oven preheats, then bake as directed. This is a fantastic time-saver for holiday meals!
More Easy Casserole Recipes to Love
If you’re a fan of comforting and convenient casseroles, you’re in for a treat! Our collection features a variety of easy-to-make casserole recipes that are perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to holiday potlucks. Explore these other delicious options to expand your culinary repertoire:
- Mashed Cauliflower Casserole: A lighter, yet equally satisfying alternative to mashed potatoes, baked to bubbly perfection.
- Sweet Potato Casserole: A holiday classic, featuring tender sweet potatoes topped with a crunchy pecan streusel or fluffy marshmallows.
- Green Bean Casserole: The quintessential side dish for any festive gathering, made with creamy green beans and crispy fried onions.
- Yellow Squash Casserole: A delightful summer dish that’s light, cheesy, and incredibly flavorful, perfect for utilizing fresh garden produce.
- Creamy Carrot Casserole: A rich and savory carrot dish with a delightful panko crust, offering a unique twist on vegetable sides.
We hope you thoroughly enjoy preparing and savoring this easy and utterly delicious Creamy Cornbread Casserole! Your feedback is invaluable, so please don’t hesitate to leave a review below and share your experience. For more mouth-watering recipes and culinary inspiration, be sure to follow Belly Full on TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, and YouTube. Happy cooking!